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U.S. stock index futures rose on Friday, putting the S&P 500 on
track to halt a five-session losing streak, ahead of a key
monthly payrolls report that may influence expectations for when
the Federal Reserve will begin to wind down its stimulus. Dow
Jones industrial average futures were up 0.36 percent at
15,874, S&P 500 futures were up 0.44 percent at 1,791.8
and Nasdaq 100 futures were up 0.34 percent at 3,490.75.

** J.C. PENNEY CO INC, Thursday close $8.85, -2.15
pct premarket

The struggling department store chain said it received a
letter of inquiry from the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission, seeking an explanation on the company's financial
position.

** INTEL CORP, Thursday close $24.26, +1.73 pct
premarket

Citigroup raised its rating on the chipmaker's stock to
"buy" from "neutral," according to Theflyonthewall.com.